Joint Seminar on World AIDS Day Explores Dentistry & Microbiology’s Fight Against HIV

BY KS NEWS DESK

Srinagar, Dec 01: In collaboration with the Department of Microbiology at the Government Medical College Srinagar, the Department of Public Health Dentistry organized a significant seminar commemorating World AIDS Day on December 1, 2023. This influential event aimed to raise awareness, discuss prevention strategies, and underscore the pivotal roles of dental and microbiology professionals in the global battle against HIV/AIDS. Joint Seminar on World AIDS Day Explores Dentistry & Microbiology’s Fight Against HIV

Gathering experts, researchers, and students from the realms of dentistry and microbiology, the seminar fostered knowledge sharing and discussions on HIV/AIDS. The insightful sessions included lectures, interactive dialogues, and presentations, enabling a comprehensive understanding of the disease and its implications.

Professor (Dr) Riyaz Farooq, Principal /Dean of Government Dental College Srinagar, conveyed his enthusiasm for this collaborative initiative, emphasizing its pivotal role in addressing the challenges posed by HIV/AIDS. “This seminar provides a crucial platform for professionals to exchange ideas and practices, significantly contributing to our global efforts against this disease,” he remarked.

The event featured distinguished keynote speakers Dr. Aasim Farooq Shah, Head of the Department of Public Health Dentistry, and Dr. Nayeem U Din, a consultant at the Department of Microbiology, Government Medical College Srinagar. They delivered comprehensive talks covering various aspects of HIV/AIDS, including epidemiology, transmission, oral manifestations, and the vital role of microbiology in understanding the virus. Notably, prevention of HIV infection spread in dental operatories was a key focus.

Faculty, postgraduates, interns, and students from Government Dental College and Hospital Srinagar, along with the Department of Microbiology at Government Medical College Srinagar, actively participated. Attendees gained valuable insights into challenges faced in providing dental care to HIV-positive individuals and the latest microbiology research related to HIV/AIDS, emphasizing occupational hazards in treating such patients.

Professor (Dr) Nahid Nehvi, Head of the Department of Microbiology at the Medical College, highlighted the significance of this collaboration in comprehensively addressing HIV/AIDS. “Through this partnership, we aim to bridge the gap between oral manifestations of HIV/AIDS and a holistic approach to tackle this public health concern,” she stressed.

Moreover, the seminar facilitated students’ research presentations and interactive sessions with speakers, offering a platform for young scholars to contribute and receive feedback. An engaging panel discussion among experts furthered discourse on challenges, treatment approaches, and considerations while dealing with HIV/AIDS patients.

The seminar’s panel included Professor (Dr) Ajaz Shah, Head of the Department of Oral Surgery, and Professor (Dr) Suhail Majid Jan from Government Dental College and Hospital Srinagar. Researchers from the Department of Microbiology, Government Medical College Srinagar, also shared their expertise during this interactive session. Representatives from field departments of Public Health Dentistry at CHC Tangmarg and PHC Sallar graced the event.

Professor (Dr) Mushtaq Mohammad, convener of the clinical society meet/PGR Government Dental College and Hospital Srinagar, welcomed attendees, encouraging their active participation. This event underscores the importance of collaborative efforts across disciplines in addressing the challenges posed by HIV/AIDS and inspires collective action towards a world free from the disease.

Government Dental College and Hospital Srinagar, dedicated to superior education and training for future dental professionals, remains committed to advancing oral healthcare and promoting awareness about critical public health issues, including HIV/AIDS.